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WASHINGTON— U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the recent signing of an Automated Commercial Environment-International Trade Data System (ACE-ITDS) memorandum of understanding with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to share ACE data in order to strengthen the balance of facilitation and enforcement regarding the regulation of ocean carriers and other entities involved in ocean trade.

"This is a significant step forward toward ensuring greater security, compliance and facilitation of cargo in the maritime environment," said Acting CBP Commissioner Thomas S. Winkowski. "CBP has enjoyed an excellent working relationship with the FMC over the years. The agency has a true passion for what they do and we look forward to working on this renewed partnership."

Mario Cordero, FMC Chairman, said "The continued partnership between the FMC and CBP will enhance the FMC's mission to foster a fair, efficient and reliable ocean transportation system and protect the public from unfair and deceptive practices. This longstanding collaboration furthers mutual objectives -- to ensure security at our nation's ports and compliance with the Safe Port Act. Furthermore, this collaboration will assist the FMC to fulfill its regulatory responsibilities under the Shipping Act."

The MOU will allow data from CBP’s Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) and other systems to be transferred directly to the FMC for use in fulfilling its statutory and regulatory duties and responsibilities. This direct transfer of data will conserve resources of both agencies and ensure compliance with the SAFE Port Act.

The agreement, signed during a ceremony at the FMC on July 19, specifies the specific data elements to be shared, the legal authority of FMC to receive the data and the conditions under which FMC may use, store or share the information.

ACE-ITDS trade data is protected by the Trade Secrets Act and both agencies are obligated under the agreement to properly safeguard the data.

The Federal Maritime Commission is the federal agency responsible for regulating the nation’s international ocean transportation for the benefit of exporters, importers, and the American consumer. The FMC’s mission is to foster a fair, efficient, and reliable international ocean transportation system while protecting the public from unfair and deceptive practices.